Port Indirect Source Rule Newsletter #11
Newsletter 11
UPDATE: We Won’t Be Fooled: AQMD Board Pursuing an ISR – They’re Just Calling It Something Else
Despite public outcry and strong opposition from labor, business, and community leaders, the AQMD is moving forward with an Indirect Source Rule (ISR). Realizing that the “ISR” term isn’t popular, they’re attempting to rebrand it as a “Ports Infrastructure Rule.”
During a recent community workshop, AQMD staff was asked point-blank whether the revised plan is an ISR. Their answer? Yes.
The original ISR proposal would have imposed cargo caps and added burdensome regulations on the nation’s busiest port complex – threatening thousands of jobs and undermining Southern California’s economy. After strong pushback by our coalition, AQMD pivoted, but their goal remains the same: regulate port operations from more than 50 miles away in Diamond Bar. Worse still, any rule adopted opens the door to future cargo caps, additional mandates, and even more costly government bureaucratic overreach.
More Government Overreach – At the Worst Time
This rule is not only unnecessary but also an example of blatant government bureaucratic overreach. AQMD has no jurisdiction over port infrastructure, which is funded and operated by cities, ports, utilities, and private industry. Infrastructure cannot be created by regulatory fiat — it requires real investment and collaboration by all parties.
Upcoming AQMD Community Working Meeting for Rule 2304
On April 16, SCAQMD staff will host an additional community workshop to discuss the proposed Ports Infrastructure Rule. We encourage you to attend and make your voice heard! Please see below for both in-person and Zoom information:
In-Person Info: SCAQMD HQ 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar, CA 91765 GB Conference Room
Zoom Info: https://scaqmd.zoom.us/j/91542075443 Webinar Meeting ID: 915 4207 5443
Hear Directly From Wilmington Small Business Owners And Community Members
AQMD’s Rule 2304, an indirect source rule (ISR), imposes costly mandates on ports—driving up expenses across the supply chain. When cargo volumes decline, it's not just the ports that are affected—it's the entire community. Listen to their stories and see the real-world impact. Watch all videos here: https://www.noportisr.com/no-port-isr-videos/small-business-owners
To learn more, visit NoPortISR.com.
Say #NoPortISR
If you know of anyone who should be added to this newsletter, please have them reach out to Natasha Villa at nvilla@pmsaship.com.